When we started looking for better internet for our rural home, I researched what felt like every option available. I priced other satellite internet providers. I checked T-Mobile and Verizon home internet. We had access to local DSL. Every option seemed to come with a catch.

Cell service isn’t reliable everywhere around us, and some cellular home internet services weren’t even available at our address. Other satellite providers had data limits that didn’t make sense for the amount of internet our family uses. Our experience with local DSL was painfully slow and unreliable.

I also work from home, which makes internet more than a convenience around here. I need it to actually work.

We decided to try Starlink.

That was more than four years ago.

Since then, we’ve used it to work from home, stream our TV and music, play video games, run Wi-Fi cameras around our farm and connect all of the phones, computers and other devices that have become a normal part of everyday life.

Fiber internet has even made its way down our road since we originally signed up for Starlink.

We’re still using Starlink.

Here’s why we’ve stuck with it, what we like about it, what we don’t, and whether I think Starlink is worth considering if you’re looking for reliable internet in a rural area.

Referral Disclosure: We pay for and use our own Starlink service, and everything in this post is based on our personal experience after more than four years as customers. This post contains our Starlink referral link. We may receive a referral reward if an eligible new customer signs up through our link. Starlink’s referral offers and eligibility can change.

Why Is Finding Good Rural Internet So Difficult?

If you live in or near a city, choosing an internet provider can be a matter of comparing speeds and prices.

Out here, sometimes the first question is simply:

Who will actually provide service to my address?

Then you have to figure out whether that service is fast enough and reliable enough to be useful.

Depending on where you live, rural internet options may include:

• DSL
• Fixed wireless
• Cellular or 5G home internet
• Traditional satellite internet
• Starlink
• Cable or fiber, if you’re lucky enough to have it

Availability can vary tremendously from one property to the next. Cellular home internet has expanded and can be an excellent option where the signal and capacity are good, but rural coverage remains inconsistent. Current comparisons of rural internet providers still point to satellite as an important option for households outside reliable wired and cellular coverage. 

That’s why I don’t think there is one universally “best” rural internet provider.

There is, however, the one that actually works where you live.

For us, that has been Starlink.

Why We Chose Starlink

I didn’t choose Starlink because it was the first rural internet option I found.

I compared our choices first.

Cellular home internet from companies like T-Mobile and Verizon sounded appealing, but availability and reliable cell coverage were problems in our area.

Our local DSL was another option, but it was expensive, painfully slow and unreliable for what we needed.

I also looked into other satellite internet providers. At the time, their data limits were a major drawback for our household.

We aren’t light internet users.

Between running a business from home and having a family full of connected devices, we needed internet we could actually use without constantly worrying about how much data we were consuming.

Starlink filled that need.

Is Starlink Fast Enough for Everyday Internet?

This was one of my biggest questions before signing up.

I’m also not going to give you a single speed-test screenshot and pretend that represents what everyone with Starlink will experience. Speeds can vary by location, network demand, equipment and other factors.

Here’s a much more useful measurement:

Can we do the things we want to do?

Yes.

In our household, we regularly use our Starlink internet for:

• Streaming TV and movies
• Streaming music
• Working from home
• Running my websites and online businesses
• Video games
• Phones, tablets and computers
• Wi-Fi security cameras
• Cameras around our farm and barn

It has given us enough internet to live and work the way we’ve become accustomed to without feeling like we’re sacrificing modern conveniences just because we live in the country.

Starlink currently markets its residential service for the same kinds of everyday uses, including streaming, video calls and online gaming. 

For me, four years of actually using the service tells me much more than any individual speed test could.

See if Starlink is available in your area

Can You Work From Home With Starlink?

I do.

This was non-negotiable for me.

My work is online. I run websites and other parts of our businesses from home, so unreliable internet can quite literally interfere with my ability to make money.

We’ve been able to use Starlink as our regular home internet while I work, other people stream, play games and use their devices, and the rest of our connected household keeps doing its thing.

Your experience will obviously depend on your location and what kind of work you’re doing, but Starlink has been completely usable for my work-from-home needs.

Can You Stream TV With Starlink?

Absolutely, at least in our experience.

In fact, this is one of the ways Starlink has helped us save money.

We don’t pay for traditional cable television. Instead, we use our internet connection and subscribe to the streaming services we actually want.

That means the cost of our Starlink service isn’t just giving us internet for computers and phones. It also supports much of our household entertainment.

If you’re comparing the price of rural internet providers, I’d consider your whole household budget, not simply the monthly internet bill.

If a better internet connection allows you to eliminate another service you’re paying for, that matters too.

Of course, whether streaming saves you money depends on how many streaming subscriptions you collect. Those little $10 and $15 charges have a sneaky way of multiplying. Ask me how I know.

What About Gaming on Starlink?

We have gamers in our house, and gaming has worked well enough for us to use Starlink as our regular internet connection.

I’m not going to promise a professional competitive gamer that satellite internet will perform exactly like a dedicated fiber connection. That’s not a fair comparison.

But if you’re a rural family wondering whether the kids can play video games while you stream TV and use the internet normally, that has been our experience.

Independent long-term Starlink testing from other rural users has similarly found it usable for remote work, streaming and gaming, although performance can fluctuate. 

Using Starlink for Wi-Fi Cameras Around Our Farm

This is one of our less conventional uses, but it may be especially helpful if you live on acreage, have a farm or need Wi-Fi in an outbuilding.

We have Wi-Fi cameras around our property, including cameras at the barn.

Our Starlink router alone wasn’t intended to magically cover our entire farm, so we use a separate router and outdoor Wi-Fi extensions to get our network where we need it.

Once we extended the network, it has worked perfectly for what we need.

This is worth remembering when you’re evaluating any rural internet service:

Getting internet to your house and getting Wi-Fi everywhere on your property are two different problems.

If your internet connection is good but your signal doesn’t reach the back bedroom, garage, barn or workshop, you may need to improve your home network rather than change internet providers.

I personally use a TP Link Deco Router System and have one of their outdoor units as well. I have also tested many wifi cameras and Netgear Arlo Cameras are my absolute favorite.

Does Starlink Work in Bad Weather?

Here’s one place where I won’t tell you Starlink has been perfect.

We have lost signal during severe weather.

It doesn’t happen every time it rains, but particularly severe weather can interrupt our connection.

That’s something I think anyone considering satellite internet should know.

However, we’ve also been through hurricanes with Starlink, and that’s where I became particularly appreciative of our setup.

We Ran Our Starlink on Generator Power During Hurricanes

We’re in Florida. Hurricanes aren’t hypothetical.

We’ve had storms that knocked out our regular electricity and left us running the house on generator power.

Our Starlink required little enough power that we were able to keep it running from our generator.

So even though the power grid was down, we could still have internet whenever the Starlink network and weather conditions allowed it.

When you’re dealing with a storm, being able to access information and communicate from a rural property is considerably more important than watching Netflix.

I wouldn’t buy Starlink solely as an emergency communication system, and no internet connection should be your only emergency plan. But after actually experiencing extended power outages, knowing that our internet can run from our generator is something I appreciate.

What I Don’t Love About Starlink

No internet provider is perfect, including this one.

The biggest drawback we’ve personally experienced is the possibility of interruptions during severe weather.

There is also an upfront equipment cost to consider, and Starlink isn’t necessarily going to be the cheapest internet option available to everyone.

That’s why I wouldn’t automatically tell someone with inexpensive, reliable fiber or cable internet to rip it out and order Starlink.

Context matters.

Starlink became valuable to us because the alternatives available at our rural property weren’t meeting our needs.

Fiber Finally Came Down Our Road. Why Haven’t We Switched?

This might actually say more about our Starlink experience than anything else in this review.

For years, fiber wasn’t an option.

Recently, they finally ran fiber-optic internet down our road.

We looked into it.

The reviews from people using the new local service have been so-so, while the Starlink sitting at our house has already proven itself for more than four years.

So we stayed with Starlink.

If reliable, affordable fiber had been sitting in front of our house when we originally went searching for internet, we might have made a different decision.

But today we’re not choosing between a hypothetical fiber connection and a hypothetical Starlink connection.

We’re choosing between a new service with mixed local feedback and an internet connection we’ve already relied on for years.

If it isn’t broken, I don’t see a reason to fix it.

Starlink vs. Other Rural Internet Options

If you’re shopping for rural internet today, I’d still do exactly what I did four years ago: compare everything actually available at your address.

Don’t assume a service is available simply because you saw an advertisement for it.

Check DSL, cable or fiber if they’re available. Check T-Mobile, Verizon and other cellular home internet providers that cover your area. Look at fixed wireless providers. Compare satellite options.

Then look beyond the advertised monthly price.

Consider:

Availability. Can you actually get it at your address?

Reliability. What good is cheap internet if it’s constantly down?

Speed. Can your household comfortably do what it needs to do?

Data limits. Are there caps, priority limits or other restrictions that matter for the way you use the internet?

Equipment costs. What will it cost to get started?

Your other bills. Could better internet allow you to eliminate cable or another service?

Your property. Do you need internet only inside the house, or do you eventually want Wi-Fi at a garage, workshop, barn or other outbuilding?

That’s how I’d find the best rural internet for your home instead of simply picking whichever company claims to be the fastest.

Is Starlink Worth It for Rural Internet?

After more than four years, it has absolutely been worth it for us.

That’s not the same as saying Starlink is the best internet provider for everyone.

If you have inexpensive and reliable fiber running directly to your house, I’d certainly compare it before choosing satellite internet.

But that’s not the reality for many rural households.

We needed internet that could support a modern family and allow me to work from home. We wanted to stream TV, listen to music, play video games, connect our devices and even keep Wi-Fi cameras running around the farm.

Starlink has allowed us to do those things.

We’ve dealt with occasional interruptions during severe weather, but we’ve also kept our internet running from a generator after hurricanes.

And now that another internet option has finally reached our road?

We’re still Starlink customers.

After four-plus years, I think that probably sums up our experience better than anything else.

Want to See if Starlink Is Available Where You Live?

If you’re dealing with slow or unreliable rural internet, it’s worth checking what Starlink currently offers at your address.

Starlink plans, prices, equipment offers and referral promotions can change, so rather than listing prices here that could quickly become outdated, you can see the current options directly from Starlink.

CHECK STARLINK AVAILABILITY AT YOUR ADDRESS

Use our Starlink referral link when checking availability and signing up. Eligible new customers may receive a referral benefit, and we may receive a referral reward. Current offers and eligibility are determined by Starlink.

The post Best Internet for Rural Areas? Our 4+ Year Starlink Experience appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

Not only is it quick and easy to make, but it’s also much more affordable than ordering takeout for the whole family. Serve it over rice with some steamed broccoli or your favorite veggies and you’ve got a delicious dinner on the table in about the same amount of time it would take to have food delivered.

This is exactly my kind of shortcut: easy, affordable, and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There is a lot to love about this Sticky Sesame Chicken, but the fact that I can have it on the table in 30 minutes is at the top of the list.

It’s ready in 30 minutes. With about 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time, this is a great recipe for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast.

It’s easy. There are no complicated cooking techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything cooks right in a skillet on the stovetop.

It’s budget-friendly. Feeding the whole family takeout can get expensive fast. Making your favorites at home is an easy way to enjoy the same kind of meal while keeping your grocery budget in check.

It tastes amazing. Crispy pieces of chicken coated in that sticky sesame glaze are hard to resist. Add some rice and veggies and you’ve got a meal everyone will look forward to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe is that you don’t need a huge shopping list to make it. You may already have most of the ingredients for the sesame sauce in your pantry.

Chicken Breast – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly. Cut them into bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and evenly.

Cornstarch – This is the secret to giving the outside of the chicken that lightly crispy texture. You’ll also use a little cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Avocado Oil – For cooking the chicken until it’s golden and crispy.

Coconut Aminos or Soy Sauce – Either works, so use whichever you keep on hand.

Sesame Oil – Toasted sesame oil gives the sauce that unmistakable sesame flavor. A little goes a long way!

Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create that delicious sticky glaze.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds so much flavor to the sauce.

Rice Vinegar – Adds just enough acidity to balance out the sweetness.

Sesame Seeds & Green Onions – These are optional, but they’re perfect for finishing the dish before serving.

How to Make Sticky Sesame Chicken

You don’t need a deep fryer or any special equipment for this one. Just grab a large skillet and dinner will be ready before you know it.

1. Coat the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season with black pepper and toss the chicken with cornstarch until all of the pieces are evenly coated.

Taking a minute to pat the chicken dry helps the cornstarch stick and gives you a better texture when it cooks.

2. Cook Until Golden & Crispy

Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.

Don’t crowd the skillet! If your pan isn’t large enough, cook the chicken in two batches. Giving the pieces a little room helps them brown instead of steam.

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate while you make the sauce.

3. Make the Sticky Sesame Sauce

Whisk together the sauce ingredients and pour them into the same skillet.

As the sauce comes to a simmer, scrape up those browned bits left behind from the chicken. There is a ton of flavor hiding in there!

Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute or two, just until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

4. Toss It All Together

Return the chicken to the skillet and toss until every piece is coated in that sticky sesame glaze.

Let everything simmer together for another minute or two until the chicken is hot and the sauce is clinging to every bite.

That’s it. Dinner is done!

Tips for the Best Sesame Chicken

Start with dry chicken. Patting the chicken dry before adding the cornstarch helps give you a better coating.

Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Give the chicken room to brown. Cooking it in two batches is worth the extra few minutes if you have a smaller skillet.

Wait for the sauce to thicken. Let the sauce get glossy and slightly thick before returning the chicken to the pan.

Serve it right away. The chicken is at its best when it’s freshly tossed in the warm sesame glaze.

Want some heat? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them over your serving.

What to Serve With Sticky Sesame Chicken

Keep it simple! One of the reasons this is such a great 30-minute meal is that you don’t need to make a bunch of complicated side dishes to go with it.

We love it served over white rice or fried rice with a vegetable on the side. Steamed broccoli is an easy choice and is perfect for soaking up any extra sticky sesame sauce.

You could also serve it with:

• Brown rice
• Cauliflower rice
• Green beans
• Stir-fried vegetables
• Asian cucumber salad

For an especially easy dinner, use frozen microwaveable rice and steam-in-the-bag vegetables. There is absolutely no shame in taking a shortcut on a busy night; that’s what we’re here for!

Variations & Substitutions

Recipes are always more useful when you can make them work with what you already have.

No cornstarch? Arrowroot or potato starch can be used instead.

No rice vinegar? White vinegar or apple cider vinegar will work in a pinch.

Prefer chicken thighs? Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be cut into bite-sized pieces and cooked the same way. Just make sure they’re cooked through before adding them back to the sauce.

Make it spicy. Add crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite chili sauce to give the sesame glaze a little kick.

Make it vegetarian. Try the sauce with crispy tofu or cauliflower instead of chicken.

How to Store & Reheat

Store leftover Sticky Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For the best results, reheat it gently in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small splash of water if the sauce has become too thick in the refrigerator. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

If you’re making this for meal prep, you can store the cooked chicken and sauce separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Sticky Sesame Chicken ahead of time?

You can, although the chicken has the best texture when it’s freshly cooked and tossed with the sauce. If you want to prep ahead, cut the chicken and mix the sauce ingredients in advance so most of the work is already done when it’s time to cook.

Can I use soy sauce instead of coconut aminos?

Absolutely. Either coconut aminos or soy sauce can be used in this recipe. Use whichever one you already have in your pantry.

How do I make sesame chicken spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce while it cooks or sprinkle them over the finished chicken. Start with a little and add more until it’s as spicy as you like it.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe too. Cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly, and make sure the chicken is cooked through before tossing it with the sauce.

More Easy Dinner Ideas

If a 30-minute dinner that saves you from ordering takeout sounds good, I’ve got plenty more easy dinner ideas for busy nights.

Zucchini Pizza Boats

Quick & Easy Mongolian Chicken Recipe

Sticky Sesame Chicken Recipe

This easy Sticky Sesame Chicken is ready in just 30 minutes! Crispy bite-sized chicken is tossed in a sweet and savory sticky sesame glaze for an easy, budget-friendly dinner that’s even better than takeout. Serve it over rice with your favorite vegetables for a quick weeknight meal the whole family can enjoy.

Print

Sticky Sesame Chicken

Make this easy Sticky Sesame Chicken in just 30 minutes! Crispy chicken tossed in a sweet sesame glaze makes a delicious, budget-friendly dinner.

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Diet Gluten Free

Keyword chicken, dairy free, gluten free

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• 1 skillet Large

Ingredients

For the chicken

• 2 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts cut into bite sized pieces
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup avocado oil

For the Sesame Sauce

• 1/4 cup coconut aminos or soy sauce
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 4 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic fresh minced
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tsps cornstarch plus 2 tbsp water (for slurry)

Optional Garnish

• toasted sesame seeds
• green onions sliced
• crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

• Pat the chicken dry. Season with black pepper and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside.
  
Swap chicken for tofu or cauliflower to make it vegetarian.
Use arrowroot or potato starch as a cornstarch substitute if needed.
• Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  
• In a small bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ketchup, and rice vinegar. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
  
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar may be used in place of rice vinegar
• Pour the sauce into the skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the slurry. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
  
• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Let simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
  
• Serve with rice and/or vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. For a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
  

Video

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• For meal prep, store chicken and sauce separately and combine when ready to eat.

 

The post Sticky Sesame Chicken Recipe (Easy 30-Minute Dinner) appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

There are so many products that we have normalized purchasing from the drug store or other retailers that are so easy to make at home, and probably better for us too. A ton of beauty products can be made at home with easy recipes, like this Homemade Lip Balm Recipe. Once you have the ratios perfected out it can be adjusted to your personal preferences.

What you will Need

• Solidifying Fat (Pastured Lard, Tallow, Coconut Oil)
• Beeswax pellets
• Flavoring or Essential oil of choice
• Honey (Optional)
• Small jar or container to hold (Lip Balm Containers)

Fat Options

The way this lip balm moisturizes your lips is from a fat source. I love using pastured lard or tallow. Pastured lard is the second highest food source in vitamin D, after cod liver oil. It is also a good source of magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, selenium, and zinc. If you can’t find a good source for Lard or Tallow you can also use Coconut oil to make this amazing lip balm.

Flavoring

I love keeping things all natural. You can use your favorite Essential oil to scent/flavor your lip balm. Peppermint Essential Oil and even Orange Essential Oil are great choices. This time I did something a little different for my girls. We bought Strawberry Flavoring from Amazon. They sell other food flavors as well. OMG! This is better than any strawberry lip balm from the store. With much higher quality ingredients. I highly recommend.

Containers

This recipe creates more of a lip balm, or lip gloss and less of a chapstick. (If you are looking for a chapstick recipe try this Peppermint Lip Balm Recipe. You are going to want a small jar container and not a twist up stick. The size is dependent on your preference. We purchased our lip balm jars from Amazon.

Honey or Not

I love Honey! Honey is a natural sweetener and antimicrobial. Honey’s natural humectant properties make it an effective moisturizer. The enzyme activity in honey enables it to penetrate deeply into the skin and bring hydration to the underlying layers. This results in plumper, softer skin with a natural radiant glow. It is a great addition to this lip balm because it adds sweetness and helps it penetrate your lips for maximum moisturizing potential.

Kid Safe

I love this lip balm for kids. There are no toxic chemicals, and they can enjoy it without worry. This is also a great craft to make during a party or sleepover. It is quick, easy, and the kids love it!

Print

Homemade Lip Balm Recipe

An amazing all natural moisturizing Homemade Lip Balm Recipe that can be made with lard, tallow, or coconut oil. Simple beauty recipe.

Course D.I.Y.

Cuisine diy

Keyword beauty

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 4 small jars

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• Lip Balm Containers
• Glass measuring cup
• measuring spoons

Ingredients

• 3 TBSP Solidifying Fat Pastured Lard, Tallow, Coconut Oil
• 1 TBSP Beeswax Pellets
• 4-5 drops Flavoring Essential Oi, Food Flavoring, Etc
• 1/2 tsp honey Optional

Instructions

• Place the fat of choice and beeswax pellets into a small microwave or heat safe bowl.
  
• Heat in the microwave at 50% power until melted or over a double boiler.
  
• Once melted stir in the honey and flavoring until well incorporated .
  
• Pour the mix into your lip balm containers and place in the refrigerator to set quickly. It will also set at room temperature, it will just take longer.
  
• Enjoy
  

The post Homemade Lip Balm Recipe | All Natural appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

Egg prices are on the rise and people are scrambling (pun intended) to find a way to lower their grocery costs. If you live in an area that allows chickens, you may want to consider owning a few. Here are some great benefits to owning chickens.

Pest Control

Chickens are great pest control! They love to eat bugs and worms out of the yard. They are a great natural pest control solution.

Weed Control

Just like the bugs, chickens love to eat small plants and weeds. While it isn’t perfect gardening, they do aid in keeping some of the weeds back. Watch out if you are a gardener…they also love to snatch young seedlings.

Fertilizer

Chicken poop is a great fertilizer. Add it to your compost bin for extra nutrients in your garden.

Eggs

Perhaps the biggest bonus to owning chickens is Eggs! Each breed of chicken has a different laying capacity. Choose one that is right for you. The average hen lays about 5 eggs a week. They do slow down in the colder months, so plan ahead. Homegrown chicken eggs are so much healthier and richer than store-bought eggs. You will never want to go back to the grocery store eggs.

Baby Chicks

If you have a rooster then your eggs will most likely be fertilized. You can allow a hen to sit on them to hatch them, or invest in a chicken incubator. This will keep you inconstant supply of new chickens for laying.

Housing

Chicken coops can get PRICEY! Especially with the trend of people raising their own birds. They do not need a fancy coop. They just need a place they can roost, get out of the weather, stay warm, and away from predators. The smaller birds should be able to be protected from predators like hawks, raccoons, etc, until they are big enough to fend for themselves. A small shed, or lean-to can be perfect. Check craigslist or Facebook marketplace for used coops that can be reused.

Leftover cleanup

When I am cleaning out my fridge my chickens are my go-to crew. They love leftover produce, pasta, bread, etc. It is a fun treat for them, and is a fun way to empty out my unwanted or spoiled food.

Entertainment

Watching chickens is some great entertainment. They have their own daily routines that are interesting to watch. It makes for some great wholesome entertainment.

Dual Purpose

Want to get homesteady? Raise chickens that are considered dual purpose. They get large enough to be used as meat but also lay eggs. You can keep your birds in rotation so you always have fresh eggs and meat.

Frequently Asked Chicken Questions

The post Save on Egg Prices – Benefits to Owning Chickens appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

This is one of those recipes that I keep all the ingredients on hand to make. It is great for impromptu guests, family game night, watching football with friends, or just because. I love to share this Black Bean Dip recipe with everyone because it is just that easy to make and delicious!

Ingredients

All you need to make this recipes is

• 2 Cans of Black Beans (or these homemade Instant Pot Black Beans)
• Onion
• Cilantro
• Garlic
• Lime Juice
• Spices (cumin, chili powder, salt, Pepper)

You will also need a Food Processor or Blender.

Instructions

Place the onion, jalapeño, garlic and cilantro in the food processor and give them a quick pulse to chop. Add in the rest of the ingredients; beans, lime juice, spices and continue to pulse until the desired consistency.

Remove and place in a serving bowl. It is just that easy!

Serving Suggestions

This Black Bean dip is amazing with chips but you can also serve it with ..

• chopped vegetables
• As a spread in a wrap
• As a filling in a quesadilla
• Topped with cheese

Storage

Store any left over dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Other Easy Dips

• 

  Easy Black Bean Dip Recipe

• 

  Keto Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

• 

  Cheesy Rotel Dip with Beef Recipe

Serve in a cute chip & dip tray!

Print

Black Bean Dip

Vegan, Easy to make. Flavorful. This simple Black Bean Dip Recipe is great for any get together or Taco Tuesday! 

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Mexican

Diet Gluten Free, Vegan

Keyword dip

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 0 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Calories 196kcal

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• Food Processor

Ingredients

• 30 ounces black beans canned, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup onion chopped
• 1/3 cup fresh cilantro chopped
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 jalapeno seeded and chopped (or jarred jalapeño pieces)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• In your food processor, place the black beans, onion, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth
• Pour the black bean dip in a bowl and garnish with cotija cheese (optional), if using or extra cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips and/or cut up vegetables.

Nutrition

Calories: 196kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 198mg | Potassium: 545mg | Fiber: 13g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 123IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 3mg

The post Easy Black Bean Dip Recipe appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

According to the USDA, America is facing a butter shortage just ahead of the holiday season. As the butter supply goes down, the prices will likely continue to go up. We’ve already had difficulty finding it in our local grocery stores.

While the timing of this butter shortage could be WAY better, many wonderful holiday recipes don’t call for the ingredient. So here are ten of our favorite holiday treats that don’t need butter to be delicious!

Orange Cranberry Biscotti

Baking these will make your home smell heavenly. They are perfect for having a cup of coffee on a chilly day. Also, they are butter-free! These come together nicely and make a delicious holiday gift for someone you love!

Orange Cranberry Biscotti recipe

Peanut Butter Cookies

These cookies are a favorite of ours! We love baking them year-round because of how quickly and easily they come together. They can also be made vegan and gluten-free. These peanut butter cookies are simple, delicious, and iconic.

PEANUT BUTTER COOKIE RECIPE

Simple Coconut Macaroons

These little cookies are light, fluffy, and coconut-y. They come together so easily and are so delicious dipped in chocolate. Because these are so easy to snack on, they’ll be gone before you know it!

Simple Coconut Macaroons RECIPE

Gingerbread Cheesecake Bites

These little Gingerbread Cheesecake Bites are nothing short of ICONIC! They are delightful, simple, and super cute. So if you are looking for a unique holiday treat to bring to a get-together, then look no further!

Gingerbread Cheesecake Bites RECIPE

Best Gingersnap Cookies

Gingersnaps are one of our favorite holiday cookies! They make the whole house smell like Christmas time. We love having these cookies to snack on when it gets chilly out.

Gingersnap Cookies RECIPE

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins

These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins are the best holiday breakfast! They always turn out so pretty and come together so quickly. They are perfect for making ahead for chilly holiday mornings!

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins RECIPE

3 Ingredient Red Velvet Cookies

These cookies are so tasty and cute that you will not believe how easily they come together! Red velvet cookies always seem festive because of the vibrant red color. Just sprinkle some powdered sugar on top, and you’ll get a gorgeous holiday cookie.

Red Velevet Cookies RECIPE

Simple Strawberry Cookies

This cookie is for strawberry lovers! Like most of the recipes featured in this post, this one comes together quickly and easily. These are absolutely delicious, and we look forward to any excuse to bake them.

Strawberry Cookies RECIPE

Cannoli Dip

This cannoli dip is such a yummy treat! This dip would be perfect to put together for a last-minute holiday get-together. It is so easy to snack on and honestly tastes so delightful.

Cannoli Dip RECIPE

Gluten-Free Pizzelle Cookies

Finally, we have these Gluten-Free (and butter-free) Pizzelle Cookies! I am always amazed at how beautiful these look. These cookies are sweet, delicate, and gorgeous. They make a fantastic gift if you want to surprise someone with a delicious and beautiful treat.

Pizzelle Cookie RECIPE

The post 10 Delicious Holiday Treats Without Butter appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

I am totally on board with this fun holiday trend of making Hot Cocoa Bombs. Not only are they delicious but hot chocolate bombs make amazing gifts too. The bonus is you only need a few simple ingredients to throw them together! It makes a fun family activity for a chilly day!

Supplies

• Hot Cocoa Bomb Mold
• Hot Cocoa Mix or Vegan Hot Cocoa Mix
• semi-sweet chocolate bars or chips (you can also use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate)
• sprinkles, dried mini marshmallows, melted white chocolate for decorating (optional)

To make Hot cocoa

• Mug
• Hot Milk of choice

Instructions

Wash and set aside your hot cocoa bomb mold on a pan or tray.

Melt Chocolate

There are two different methods you could use to melt the chocolate.

Double Boiler: For the double boiler method, bring half a pot of water to a boil and place the chocolate in a glass or stainless steel bowl on top. The bowl should fit over the pot like a lid. The steam will heat the bowl. Add the chocolate chips to the bowl, whisking until smooth and glossy.

Microwave: To be honest, this is my favorite way. Its fast and easy. Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and stir every 30 seconds. Stopping the microwave to stir the chocolate with reduce the chances of burning the chocolate. Once smooth and glossy, your chocolate is ready! I sometimes will add 1/2 tsp of coconut oil or butter. This helps smooth the melting chocolate.

Assemble shell

Now that your chocolate is melted its time to assemble the shells. Use a tablespoon to scoop the melted chocolate into each mold. Use the back of a spoon to help spread the chocolate up the sides. Make sure the chocolate is spread in an even layer and there are not spots that are too thin.

Place the molds on a flat surface like a baking sheet and freeze for at least 15 minutes. This will harden the chocolate and allow you to remove it from the mold to be filled.

Make the Bomb

Once chilled, gently remove the chocolate shell from the mold. The silicone molds make it easy to peel them back to remove.

Two halves make 1 bomb. Fill one half with your hot cocoa mix add dried marshmallows, or sprinkles if desired.

Now for the trickiest part of this hot cocoa bombs recipe. Heat a pan over medium heat. Place the unfilled half of the chocolate shell on the pan for a second or two. Just until the rim begins to melt. Quickly put it onto the filled half to create your sphere. The melted edge acts as the seal to hold your bomb together.

Continue this process with all the bombs you want to make.

Decorations (optional)

Now this part is optional, but fun. You can drizzle additional melted chocolate on the exterior of your chocolate spheres, top with sprinkles, and more. However you choose to decorate them.

How Does a Hot Chocolate Bomb Work?

This is my favorite part. Simply put your bomb in your favorite mug and pour about 8 ounces of hot milk over your bomb. Watch the magic happen! Stir and enjoy your delicious hot cocoa!

Vegan Hot Cocoa Bombs

YES, you can totally make these vegan! Use your favorite vegan chocolate and this Vegan Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe to fill them.

Best Hot Chocolate Mix for Inside Hot Cocoa Bombs

There is not right or wrong cocoa mix for inside the hot cocoa bombs. You can make homemade Hot Cocoa Mix or Vegan Hot Cocoa Mix. You can also purchase pre-made mixes.

Try some untraditional White Chocolate Cocoa too! SO GOOD!

Tips & Tricks

• Use gloves when assembling your hot cocoa bombs to avoid fingerprints on the outside.
• Add tasty extras like crushed candy canes, caramel chips, extra dried marshmallows, etc.
• Skip the mix and drop your Hot Cocoa Bomb right into your morning cup of coffee for a Buddy the Elf Style Mocha that you will love!

Storing

I recommend storing these in an airtight container the fridge until ready to use. You can store them at room temperature also.

Gift Idea

These Hot Cocoa Bombs make fantastic gifts! Give just the hot cocoa bombs or create a fun gift basket with mugs, spoons, hot cocoa bombs, and some homemade freezer cookie dough! YUM!

Print

Hot Cocoa Bombs

Make them for yourself or to give as gifts. This Hot Cocoa Bombs Recipe will bring a smile to your face! Easy & Delicious. 

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, Gluten Free

Diet Gluten Free, Vegan

Keyword christmas, holiday

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Chill Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 6 bombs

Calories 368kcal

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• Hot Cocoa Bomb Mold
• Spoon
• mixing bowl

Ingredients

• 12 oz Semi Sweet chocolate Chips or chopped
• 1/2 cup Hot Cocoa Mix
• White Chocolate Optional
• Sprinkles Optional

Instructions

• Wash and set mold on a pan or tray.
• Melt chocolate according to the package using a microwave or double boiler.
• Once melted spoon chocolate into mold covering each sphere evenly making sure it isn't too thin.
• Place filled hot cocoa bomb mold on a pan or tray in the freezer for at least 15-20 minutes to harden.
• Carefully remove the mold from the freezer and gently remove the chocolate shells from the mold. Set them on parchment paper.
• Two halves make 1 hot cocoa bomb. Fill 1 half with hot cocoa mix.
• Heat a pan on the stove top and place the second half on the pan for only a second or two to melt the rim. Immediately place it on the filled half to create a sphere. The melted rim acts like the glue to hold the two pieces together.
• Repeat with the other bombs.
• Optional: Melt additional chocolate or candy melts to drizzle the top of the bombs to decorate them and top with sprinkles if desired .

Hot Cocoa

• To make hot cocoa with your bombs place one bomb in a mug. Top with about 8 oz of hot milk of your choice. Watch the magic happen. Stir and enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Place in an airtight container and store in the fridge until ready to use. You can also store in a cool dry place at room temperature.

Nutrition

Calories: 368kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 91mg | Potassium: 321mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 27g | Vitamin A: 29IU | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 4mg

The post Simple Hot Cocoa Bombs Recipe appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

Quality family time is extra important as the weather gets chillier and kids are back in school. We plan on making the most of this autumn by doing all these activities with our family. They are super fun and cozy while also being super affordable. All it takes is a little bit of effort to make this the most fun fall ever for you and your family!

Movie Marathon

It’s so nice to host a movie marathon with the whole family! There’s nothing like getting cozy at the end of the day to watch a good movie together. Some of our favorite movies, like Harry Potter and Hocus Pocus, take place in the fall! These films aren’t too spooky and are perfect for watching around Halloween with your family. 

You can also check out this list of 13 Halloween Movies every family should own!

Bonfires

This is another cozy activity the whole family will love! Since the temperatures are dropping, you can all get comfy by the bonfire with blankets and snacks. We recommend classic s’mores.

If you want to go the extra mile with family fun, turn the bonfire into a scary story competition! Have everyone prepare a spooky story before the bonfire, and then go around sharing tales on the night of all the fun. A bonfire is the perfect atmosphere for telling ghost stories.

Game Nights

Host a family board game night! Game nights are such a fun way to get kids off their phones and share time as a family. So, prepare some snacks, turn on some music, and let the competition begin! Here are 15 fun board games every family should own, in case you are looking for inspiration!

Decorate Pumpkins 

Carving Jack ‘O Lanterns is an essential part of the fall experience. It is an annual activity in our family, and we look forward to it every year. It is the most classic form of pumpkin decorating, in our opinion. What is spooky though, is that most people have no idea how many other ways there are to decorate a pumpkin! 

If you have little kids and want to safely include them in the fun without carving, you could have a pumpkin painting party! It just takes a little acrylic paint and some imagination. Some cute and easy ideas include: the classic triangle face, little ghosts, sunflowers, or bats. These look so cute displayed around the house!

Additionally, you could try making pumpkin lanterns. These are great if you aren’t as artistically inclined. Just hollow out your pumpkin, drill some holes in it, and add your light to the center. They look so cool once it is lit up! Here is a great how-to guide by Design Love Fest.

Visit a Park

This is another fun and affordable way to enjoy fall as a family. Fall is our favorite time to go visit parks since the weather is perfect and it’s less crowded than in the summertime. We love to walk along the nature trails and swing on the swing sets. So, wherever you are, there are so many state and local parks to explore!

Geocaching

This activity is a new favorite of ours! Geocaching is essentially a treasure hunt using GPS, where people look for caches or hidden stashes of treasure. It could even turn into a game of hide-and-seek, where you look online for clues.  

Geocaching is great for families with older kids, as it is a little bit more involved than a trip to the playground. Still, it is a fantastic way to get outside and explore nature while also looking for treasure! Many local and state parks will host their own geocaching events, so keep a lookout for any in your area. For more information, click here to read the article by National Geographic.

Host an Autumn Picnic

Fall is such an excellent time to be outside. The weather is crisper, fewer bugs are around, and the trees are beautiful. Packing a fall picnic with your family is the perfect way to enjoy the fresh air and spend time together. Check out our post on Planning the Best Picnics Year Round for some extra tips and tricks that will help you have the cutest fall picnic ever!

Apple Picking or Pumpkin Patch

If you are lucky enough to live someplace where apple picking is available, we highly recommend you take advantage of that! It is such a wholesome fall activity, and the results are absolutely delicious. Somehow the apples just taste better when you’ve picked them yourself. If you pick too many to eat all at once, try making this incredible Instant Pot Apple Butter.

If your state doesn’t have apple orchards, you could visit a pumpkin patch. Picking out the perfect pumpkin is a fun activity everyone enjoys. If you chose to carve out your pumpkin to make a Jack O Lantern, try roasting the seeds to make this delicious and autumnal Pumpkin Spice Granola!

Decorate the House

Decorating the house for fall is a perfect rainy-day fall activity to do with your family. To get the whole family involved in decorating, try doing one of these 7 Cozy Ideas to Decorate for Fall Under 15. You could do so many fun craft projects and activities with your family to make your house look extra cozy and cute. 

What are your fall family fun favorites? Share in the comment below.

The post 9 Affordable Family Fun Ideas for Fall appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

All the flavors of the holidays packed into this amazing Gingerbread Granola Recipes. Perfect for breakfast and to give as gifts!

Cool weather, baking, gift giving, and warm flavors make this Gingerbread Granola recipe on point for Winter. I love the warm flavor of ginger, molasses paired with the simpleness of granola for a hearty breakfast or snack. This is also amazing to make in bulk and give as gifts! So many great ways to use this delicious granola

Ingredients

All you need to make this gingerbread granola is …

• old-fashioned rolled oats (use certified gluten free if necessary)
• cinnamon
• ginger
• allspice
• nutmeg
• salt
• vanilla extract
• molasses
• maple syrup
• coconut oil

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, add oats, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg and salt. Stir to combine.

Once combined, add vanilla extract, molasses, maple syrup and coconut oil. Mix until all ingredients are incorporated.

Pour the granola onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread the granola, pressing to flatten it down slightly into an even layer.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-22 minutes. Remove from oven and cool before breaking the granola apart and serving.

Watch Out!!

Granola is one of those things that can go from not done to burnt quickly. Keep an eye on it the last 5 minutes and pull out early if necessary. Oven temps can vary depending on the manufacturer.

Gluten Free

I love this recipe because the only thing you have to do to make it gluten free is use Certified Gluten Free Oats. As always double check your other ingredients for any hidden gluten.

Vegan

This granola is naturally vegan so if that is a concern for you this recipe is safe.

Storage

Allow this granola to sit out on the counter for 1 hour or more before placing it in an airtight container. This allows it to harden, giving it a crunchier texture

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.

Uses

Some people are huge granola fans and others want uses for it. I have you covered there are so many yummy ways to use this tasty granola.

• In a bowl with milk
• On yogurt
• Mix it with some Candied Pecans and dried cranberries to make a holiday trail mix.
• Sprinkle it on the Apple Gingerbread Muffins as a crunch topping.
• Thing Graham Cracker Crust but with granola….its amazing!
• On ice cream to add crunch because why not!
• As a topping on sweet potato casserole. SO GOOD!

Print

Gingerbread Granola Recipe

All the flavors of the holidays packed into this amazing Gingerbread Granola Recipes. Perfect for breakfast and to give as gifts!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free

Keyword holiday

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings (1/2 cup)

Calories 339kcal

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• mixing bowl
• sheet pan
• Parchment Paper

Ingredients

• 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats use certified gluten free if necessary
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• ½ cup maple syrup
• ½ cup coconut oil

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, add oats, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg and salt. Stir to combine.
• In the same bowl, add vanilla extract, molasses, maple syrup and coconut oil. Mix until all ingredients are incorporated.
• Pour the granola onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread the granola, pressing to flatten it down slightly into an even layer.
• Bake for 20-22 minutes.
• Remove from oven and cool before breaking the granola apart and serving.

Notes

Enjoy this granola on it’s own, with milk or over yogurt. Allow it to sit out on the counter for 1 hour or more before placing it in an airtight container. This allows it to harden, giving it a crunchier texture

Nutrition

Calories: 339kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 223mg | Potassium: 233mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Gingerbread Granola Recipe appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

During the holidays I am always looking for easy recipes that are great for serving guests. This Simple Cannoli Dip Recipe is honestly perfect no matter what time of year! I love to use it as the center of a dessert charcuterie board with cookies, fruit, chocolate etc. It takes only minutes to whip up and everyone loves it!

Ingredients

This dip is so easy to make! You will need

• Cream Cheese
• Ricotta Cheese
• Powdered Sugar
• Vanilla Extract
• Mini or Regular chocolate chips
• Cookies to dip (These Pizelles are perfect)

Instructions

Simple dips like this make everything easier. They are perfect for quick get togethers. Make sure your cream cheese is softened and beat together the cream cheese, ricotta, powdered sugar and vanilla in a medium mixing bowl until smooth. Fold in the chocolate chips and place in your serving bowl.

Arrange some dipping options around your Cannoli Dip and you are ready to enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This Cannoli Dip is incredible! You can serve it with

• Pizzelle Cookies
• Vanilla Wafers
• Graham Crackers
• Broken Waffle Cones
• Fruit
• and so much more

Storage

Cannoli dip can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two to three days. If you are going to make it ahead of time wait to stir in the chocolate chips until right before serving for best results.

Print

Cannoli Dip Recipe

An easy to make dessert dip that is decadent and delicious. This Cannoli Dip Recipe is perfect for a dessert charcuterie board.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free

Keyword dip

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 10 people

Calories 230kcal

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• Hand Mixer
• mixing bowl

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 8 ounces cream cheese softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup mini chocolate chips
• waffle cones or cookies broken

Instructions

• In a medium bowl place softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat with a hand mixer for 2-3 minutes or until smooth.
• Taste test the dip
• If serving immediately fold in chocolate chips. If making ahead, refrigerate and wait until right before serving to fold in the chocolate chips.
• Serve with broken waffle cones, cookies, or fruit for dipping.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 100mg | Potassium: 57mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 441IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 87mg | Iron: 0.3mg

The post Cannoli Dip Recipe appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

We take family game nights very seriously. Okay, maybe not too seriously, but there is a lot of fun in completely destroying your family at a board game. It keeps them humble. Here are 15 of our favorite board games that every family should have in their collection for when game night comes around. Gather up some snacks, put the phones down, and let the games begin!

Monopoly

Starting off with a classic, Monopoly is a family game night essential. It is recommended for kids ages 8 and up, and can be played with 2-6 people. This game is the perfect combination of luck, and strategy.

Click Here to Buy Monopoly

Blokus

This board game is super fun and easy to play! Blokus is a strategy game recommended for kids 7 and up, and it takes 2-4 players

Click Here to Buy Blokus

Clue

Everyone loves a good mystery! Clue is a classic detective game the whole family will love. It is recommended for kids 8 and up, and takes 3-6 players.

Click Here to Buy Clue

The Game of Life

Heading to college or going straight into the workforce? Will you have twins? What about retirement? These are all things that come up in the game of life. Perfect for ages 8 and up and 2 to 4 players.

Click Here to Buy The Game of LIfe

Scrabble

This classic crossword game is a great choice for family game night! It offers you the chance to show off your vocabulary, and will probably have you googling what is or isn’t a word. Scrabble offers different ways to play depending on skill level, and is recommended for kids 8 and up. You can play Scrabble with up to 4 people

Click Here to Buy Scrabble

Yahtzee 

This game is an underrated classic! It is so fun to play, and our whole family loves it. Yahtzee is recommended for kids 8 and up, and takes two or more players.

Click Here to Buy yahtzee

Sorry!

Oops, this game is too fun! This game is super easy to play and encourages some healthy competition. It is recommended for kids 6 and up, and takes 2-4 players.

Click Here to Buy Sorry

Chickapig

We might be partial to this game because of the cute characters and farm theme. This strategy game is so fun for the whole family! It is recommended for kids 8 and up, and takes 2-4 players.

Click Here to Buy Chickapig

Mouse Trap

This classic board game is so exciting and fun! Kids will love seeing the trap set in action. Mouse Trap is recommended for kids 6 and up, and takes 2-4 players.

Click Here to Buy Mousetrap

Jenga

Everyone loves shouting Jenga! This game will have your family on the edge of their seats. Pro tip: don’t take from the edges if you can help it. Jenga is recommended for kids 6 and up, and is the perfect game for one or more players.

Click Here to Buy Jenga

Operation

This is another exciting game that will have kids on the edge of their seats. Operation will have your whole family laughing and jumping at the buzzer. Operation is recommended for kids 6 and up, and takes 1 or more players.

Click Here to Buy Operation

Candy Land

This game is so nostalgic! Candy Land is a wonderfully fun board game to play with your family. It is recommended for kids 3 and up, and takes 2-4 players

Click Here to Buy Candy Land

Trouble

This is an exciting and engaging option for family game night! It’s fun to just press the bubble, and it’s even more fun to win. Trouble is recommended for kids 5 and up, and takes 2-4 players.

Click Here to Buy Trouble

Ticket to Ride

This is one of our favorite board games to play during family game night! Ticket to Ride is competitive and fun for the whole family. It is recommended for kids 8 and up, and takes 2-5 players.

Click Here to Buy Ticket to Ride

Trivial Pursuit

Test your family’s knowledge with this classic trivia board game! Trivia pursuit is a competitive and exciting choice for family game night. It is recommended for kids 16 and up, and takes 2-6 players.

Click Here to Buy Trivial Pursuit

Pictionary

We’re finishing this list on a strong note with Pictionary! Put your family’s art skills to the test with this classic game. Pictionary is recommended for kids 8 and up, and takes 2 teams of players to play.

Click Here to Buy Pictionary

All of the board games listed above are great options to have for game nights with your family. No matter what games you chose to play, remember that the most important part is spending time together…and winning. Now, go have some fun!

The post 15 Fun Board Games Every Family Should Own appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

It is almost time for pumpkin spice lattes, warm colors, crunchy leaves, and Harry Potter marathons.. It is arguably the best time of the year. So, let’s properly welcome autumn by throwing up some cute and affordable decorations! Here are seven different decor options that will help give your home all the cute fall vibes for this season:

DIY Autumn Leaf Garland

Garland is such an easy way to bring some cute autumnal vibes into your home. It is also so easy to DIY! All you need is some twine, hot glue, and creativity.

This Autumn Leaves and Acorn Garland by Eliza Darlings is a captivating and affordable option for fall! It has all of the warm autumn colors we love. The leaves with the book pages in the background also bring a cozy element to any room.

Floating Candles

These DIY Harry Potter Floating Candles are just the right amount of nerdy. They are nearly effortless to make and bring a little magic to any space! We like hanging them above the kitchen table because they were above the dining hall in the movies. You can also hang them around the TV for the perfect movie marathon ambiance!

Cinnamon Brooms

Cinnamon brooms will be in nearly every supermarket soon! They smell AMAZING and also add a witchy fall vibe to any room. Legend has that they even rid spaces of unwanted negative energy. They are an easy, cute, and affordable option to decorate your space for fall!

Paper Bats

It’s freakin bats! We love Halloween. 

These DIY Paper Bats by Andi Mans are such a fun and easy craft project! They look so cute, and they are also super affordable and effortless. This would be an excellent project for kids, too! These cute bats are a perfect last-minute Halloween decoration and an adorable way to decorate for fall!

DIY Apothecary Jars

No one will be able to tell you DIY’d these Halloween apothecary jars! All you need are some empty jars and some little knick-knacks to fill them up with. You can reuse jars you already have and even hit up your local thrift store to see what kind of jars they have available. The free printable labels are equal parts cute and spooky (and free)!

Canning Ring Pumpkins

These Canning Ring Pumpkins by Down Redbud Drive are beyond adorable! They remind me of something you would see at Pottery Barn or Target, but without the crazy expenses. If you love farmhouse decor, you’ll love this unique and easy craft. I want to decorate with these pumpkins everywhere!

Dried Orange Garland

This Dried Orange Garland by The Ginger Home is simple, beautiful, and will make your house smell like oranges. Combined with the cinnamon broom, these would be a winning combination for making your house smell amazing! The garland adds the perfect pop of orange to any space and brings the cozy, earthy fall vibes we all love

Decorating for new seasons is such a fun part of every year. So, even though things are a little more expensive now, I hope these craft projects and ideas inspire you to decorate your home for the fall! 

The post 7 Cozy Ideas to Decorate for Fall Under $15 appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

Couponing isn’t what it used to be and with inflation grocery store trips are costing more and more. Here are some realistic ways to reduce your grocery bill without coupons. It may be easier than you think.

Seasonal

Eating seasonally is huge at helping to reduce your grocery bill. Purchasing watermelon in November is going to cost you big bucks. Enjoy the seasonal items while they are at their peek. Not only will the prices be lower but they will be the most flavorful and fresh. If the price is low enough consider grabbing extra for the freezer, canning, etc for the rest of the year.

Sales

I know it seems obvious but shop the sales. I do this at more than one store per week when I can. Try to only purchase items that are on sale and stock up on ones that are at their lowest price. Then, try to plan meals around those things. By doing this you are saving money and still feeding your family the things they love.

Rewards Card

Depending on the store you shop at they may have a rewards card or program you can sign up for. These are a great way to get special offers, coupons, or even earn points toward groceries depending on the program. They are amazing to take advantage to help you reduce your grocery bill each month.

Clearance

Everyone is doing grocery pickup orders, but when you do you miss out on the clearance specials. Hit the grocery store early in the morning and keep your eyes out for clearance stickers. My favorite places are the meat, dairy, bakery, and produce departments. These deep discounts can really help you feed your family for less.

While checking out the clearance consider items that can be frozen to preserve them for even longer. For example, if I found ground beef on clearance I will buy more than I need and freeze the rest when I come home for dinners in the future.

Generic

Yes I said it. Get the generic. Grab a bag of Malt o Meal Cereal instead of General Mills. Snag the store brand Mayo instead of the Kraft. These simple changes can add up. The generics may surprise you too!

Aldi

If there is an Aldi in your area, go now! Aldi is amazing for lower price, real food. The savings are there all the time. I have also found the produce to be better quality because they sell so much do to the lower prices. It’s a win win.

Meal Planning

The old adage time is money is so true! Spending a little bit of time planning your meals for the week can save you big bucks at the store. By eliminating waste and impulse buys you can save big on your weekly bill. Check out these tips for Meal Planning

Gardening

Starting a garden does not have to be HUGE! Start small with a couple pots on your porch and work your way up as you feel comfortable. Grow one or two items your family uses. Not only is it rewarding but this will help you reduce your food budget.

Think about landscaping your yard with some fruit trees depending on your climate. I love walking outside and being able to pick oranges, or figs when they are in season and it saves me from purchasing them at the store.

Farmers Market

Shop local when possible. Find out if there is a farmers market or fruit stand in your area. These are great places to get more local ingredients, often times for less. Check out the USDA Farmers Market Food Directory to see what’s available in your area.

One Meatless Meal

Try implementing one meatless meal a week. Choose one recipe a week that doesn’t use meat, but instead beans, extra veggies, pasta, etc. By eliminating meat from one meal you are eliminating some of the cost associated. Beans, pasta, etc tend to be lower in price helping your weekly budget. This Bean & Cheese Bake is so good and a perfect option.

Eliminate convenience foods

Skip the microwave meals and make your own meals in bulk.

• No more bagged chicken nuggets, grab a package of chicken and try this chicken nugget recipe.
• Move over pizza, time to make this homemade pizza crust.
• Skip the store-bought popsicles and make your own super affordably with these Popsicle Recipes

You don’t realize how much of an uncharge there is on convenience foods until you try to make them yourself. Not only will they be higher quality, but you will get a lot more food for your dollar.

The post Reduce Your Grocery Bill Without Coupons – Realistic Tips appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

As electric bills skyrocket every one is looking for tips to reduce their electric bill. Some seem far fetched while others don’t do much. Here are some real tips to reduce your Electric bill and help take the sting out of opening that monthly statement.

Hot Water Heater

Running a hot water heater accounts for up to 25 percent of the average household’s yearly energy consumption, and lowering the thermostat setting by 20 degrees can reduce its energy use by up to 10 percent.

Also consider eventually replacing it with an Instant Hot Water Heater. These can be more energy efficient and space saving.

AC/Heater

Most people will tell you specific settings for your AC and Heat that will reduce your bill. However you know where you are comfortable when it comes to temperature. A couple other things you can do is make sure you have your unit serviced annually! Maintaining and cleaning the unit are huge on saving on electricity.

Also change your ac filter once a month. YES, it is that important. Especially if you run it often.

One other change is getting a programmable thermostat. By setting temperatures for when you will be home and when you will be out you can save quite a bit on your AC bill.

Laundry

Run the dryer strategically. In the winter run it during the day to help heat the house. In the summer try to only run it at night to not create additional heat in the house. Also washing your clothes in cold water only can save big on your hot water usage, reducing your bill.

Crockpot/Instant Pot

Skip the oven and go right for the crockpot or instant pot. When you cook at home all the time turning on the oven or stovetop seems like no big deal. Both of these things use a lot of electricity and can heat your home. Visit MomsWithCrockpots.com for a ton of Crockpot Recipes. Also check out the Instant Pot Recipes here on A Few Shortcuts.

Curtains

A great pair of black out curtains can really help to regulate the temperature in a room. I know it is lovely to look out the window but when it is really hot outside opening the curtains can really increase the temperature in a room. Adding a pair of black out curtains add a thermal layer in front of your window and help keeps temperatures down. Keeping your AC bill down in return.

LED lights

Not a huge change but a good change. Start switching your lightbulbs and fixtures to LED lights. These use a fraction of the electricity that old lightbulbs do. A simple change to help you lower your bill.

Weatherstripping

Replacing doors and windows is so expensive. One thing that isn’t expensive is weatherstripping. Make sure that all of your doors and windows have a good seal and weather stripping. You can pick this up at your local hardware store and fix it very easily.

Smart Power Strips

Phantom power (also called vampire power or leaking electricity) refers to the amount of electricity that your devices use when they’re plugged in but not in use. These power suckers can account for as much as 5% to 10% of the cost of your electricity bill month in and month out—yikes.

You could unplug everything when you’re not using it, but that’s not always ideal, especially for things like TVs and appliances. Try ditching standard power strips and switch to smart power strips instead, which automatically cut off the electric current to devices when they’re not being used. At a cost of around $15 to $30 per strip, it’s a small price to pay for such impressive long term savings.

Power Survey

Many electric companies will send someone out free of charge to help you do a power survey. They will evaluate your home and tell you where you are using the most electricity. Having this knowledge can help you make better choices on a day to day basis to lower your bill.

Hopefully these realistic tips to help you reduce your electric bill make a difference in your month to month expenses. Have you tried something that has worked for you? Feel free to share it in the comments below.

The post Simple Tips to Reduce Your Electric Bill appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

Homemade bagels do not have to be difficult! Try this simple 2 Ingredient Everything Bagel Recipe that is so delicious!

A bagel with a schmear of cream cheese is one of my favorite breakfasts! A fresh hot bagel out of the oven is just heavenly with a cup of hot coffee! These 2 Ingredient Everything Bagels are too easy to make…it’s almost dangerous. This is a simple recipe anyone can make at home. They are so tasty!

Ingredients

OK…the intrigue! The two main ingredients that make these bagels are…

• Self Rising Flour
• Plain Greek Yogurt

You will also of course need your Everything Bagel Seasoning, or however you choose to top your bagels.

Also you will need

• baking sheet
• mixing bowl
• parchment paper or silpat

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or siplat and set aside.

In a large bowl, add the cup of self-rising flour and plain Greek yogurt. Stir until fully incorporated.

Did You know??

Depending on the moisture content of the yogurt used, you may need to make adjustments to get the right consistency. If your dough is too dry, add a little water until the dough is pliable. If your dough is too sticky, add a little flour until the right consistency is reached.

Shape the dough into a large ball and use a knife to slice into 4 even sections. Shape each section into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet. Press each ball to flatten slightly and use your thumb to create a hole in the center of each bagel.

For optional egg wash: mix the egg and water in a small bowl. Brush the egg wash on the tops of each bagel and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.

Place baking sheet in preheated oven to bake for 20 to 22 minutes.

Adjust the oven to the broil setting and allow the bagels to brown further for 5 minutes.

Remove from the oven and allow the bagels to cool before slicing. Enjoy with your favorite toppings.

Gluten Free

Yes, you can make these bagels gluten free. Simply use your favorite gluten free flour blend. I also recommend adding in about 1 tbsp of Baking Powder to help with the rising. That is what is in self rising flour that helps give it a lift after all.

Storage

Store any uneaten bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Can keep longer in the fridge and if frozen.

Other Flavors

If you aren’t a fan of everything bagel seasoning you can make these 2 ingredient bagels plain, or top with other seasonings or even mix-ins.

Print

2 Ingredient Bagel Recipe

Homemade bagels do not have to be difficult! Try this simple 2 Ingredient Everything Bagel Recipe that is so delicious!

Course Bread

Cuisine American

Keyword breakfast

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 bagels

Calories 159kcal

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• sheet pan
• mixing bowl

Ingredients

• 1 cup self-rising flour see notes for gluten free
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

Optional toppings:

• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon water
• Everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
• In a large bowl, add the cup of self-rising flour and plain Greek yogurt. Stir until fully incorporated. Depending on the moisture content of the yogurt used, you may need to make adjustments to get the right consistency. If your dough is too dry, add a little water until the dough is pliable. If your dough is too sticky, add a little flour until the right consistency is reached.
• Shape the dough into a large ball and use a knife to slice into 4 even sections. Shape each section into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet. Press each ball to flatten slightly and use your thumb to create a hole in the center of each bagel.
• For optional egg wash: mix the egg and water in a small bowl. Brush the egg wash on the tops of each bagel and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
• Place baking sheet in preheated oven to bake for 20 to 22 minutes.
• Adjust the oven to the broil setting and allow the bagels to brown further for 5 minutes.
• Remove from the oven and allow the bagels to cool before slicing.

Video

Notes

To make self-rising flour, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder and ¼ teaspoon salt.

Gluten Free

Use your favorite gluten free flour blend and mix in 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder and ¼ teaspoon salt.

Nutrition

Calories: 159kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 43mg | Sodium: 34mg | Potassium: 117mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 62IU | Calcium: 66mg | Iron: 1mg

The post 2 Ingredient Everything Bagel Recipe appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

My love for Trader Joes runs deep and they have some staple products that are my go to whenever I am shopping. One of them is their Everything Bagel Seasoning. We love to use it for all types of dishes. When I can’t get to the store I whip up this copycat version. This Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe is one of those recipes everyone should have.

Ingredients

Only a few spices/seasonings in this one. You will need a small jar or container to store it in as well. I love using mason jars or these spice jars I found on amazon.

• Coarse Salt
• Poppy seeds
• Black Sesame Seeds
• White Sesame Seeds
• Dried Minced Garlic
• Dried Minced Onion

Instructions

This is just a simple spice blend. Measure your spices and mix together in a jar or bowl. Use as desired.

Storage

Store in an airtight container until ready to use and enjoy.

Uses

Now that you’ve made this tasty seasoning what do you use everything bagel seasoning for…besides bagels of course. Well here is a list of a few things to try.

• Bread (breadsticks, pretzels, bagels, & More)
• Snack Mixes like this Chex Mix
• Mac & Cheese (yes I said it! This one is the BEST EVER!)
• Delicious on poultry! Roast chicken, turkey, and more!
• Make incredible eggs! Try it on these Sheet Pan Scrambled Eggs
• Sprinkle it on a salad or use it in homemade salad dressing. It really kicks up this Apple Cider Vinaigrette.

There are honestly so many more yummy ways to use this. Share some of your favorites in the comments below.

Print

Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe

It's not just for bagels! This Everything Bagel Seasoning recipe is so simple to make and it tastes just like the famous Trader Joes version!

Course Spices

Cuisine American

Keyword seasoning

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 cup

Author Amanda Carlisle

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp poppy seeds
• 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp black sesame seeds
• 2 1/2 tbsp dried minced garlic
• 2 1/2 tbsp dried mined onion
• 1 1/2 tbsp coarse salt kosher, flaked sea salt, etc.

Instructions

• Mix all of the spices together in a bowl and store in an airtight container or spice jar until ready to use.

The post Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe – Just Like Trader Joes appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

Ingredients

To make this spooky pizza you will need

• French Bread
• Olive Oil
• Pesto
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
• Whole Mushrooms
• Other pizza toppings as desired

Instructions

The key to this spooky pizza is of course the mushrooms. Purchase WHOLE MUSHROOMS and cut them in half so they sit flat.

Using a paring knife cut a few small slits on the stems. Then using the knife or a straw cut 2 circles for eyes. Set the mushrooms to the side.

Cut your French bread slice and brush with olive oil. Begin assembling your pizza. Instead of red pizza sauce we are using pesto to add to the spooky effect. Spread that on your slice of French bread.

Top with a little bit of shredded mozzarella. We want the green of the pesto to show through, you can even place some cheese below the pesto if you want.

Now top with your mushrooms and any other toppings you want to add. You can brush the mushrooms with a little olive oil as well. This will speed up the shriveling & browning.

Place on a foil lined baking sheet and bake at 425 for 10-15 minutes or until bubbly and brown.

Allergen Friendly

Gluten free

You are not limited to making this on French bread. You can try this with gluten free bread or any allergen friendly bread.

Dairy Free

Their are many great dairy free and vegan cheese alternatives to use for your pizza. We like Daiya. Also the pesto can have dairy. Trader Joes has an excellent vegan pesto. There are also a lot of recipes online for delicious vegan pestos.

Tips

Use these fun methods on any recipe that has mushrooms. Try this with our yummy Homemade pizza Crust!

Kids don’t like pesto? No problem. Try this Easy Pizza Sauce instead. It’s delicious and kid friendly!

Toss mushrooms cut like this into your favorite dishes like salads, and even this amazing Crockpot Beef Stew. So much fun!

Storage

This is best eaten fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Print

Spooky Mushroom French Bread Pizza

Course Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine American

Keyword halloween

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 2 pizzas

Calories 566kcal

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• knife
• sheet pan

Ingredients

• 2 slices French bread
• 1 – 2 TBSP Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup Pesto
• 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup whole mushrooms
• other pizza toppings if desired

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425 degrees F and cover sheet pan with aluminum foil
• Brush olive oil onto each slice of French bread
• Take the whole mushrooms and cut them in half. Using a paring knife cut a few small slits on the stems. Then using the knife or a straw cut 2 circles for eyes. Set the mushrooms to the side.
• Add pesto to the tops of the French bread like pizza sauce.
• Sprinkle each lightly with the shredded mozzarella cheese as desired.
• Now top the pizza with your mushrooms and other pizza toppings. (You can brush the mushrooms with a little olive oil to help them brown better)
• Place pizzas on the sheet pan and bake for 10 -15 minutes until golden and bubbly. Serve and enjoy

Notes

Dairy Free

Use a vegan cheese and pesto

Gluten Free

Use another type of gluten free bread instead of French bread. 

Nutrition

Calories: 566kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 40g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 852mg | Potassium: 135mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 814IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 225mg | Iron: 3mg

More Halloween Food Ideas

• 

  Harry Potter Quidditch Broom Pretzel Snacks

• 

  Simple Pumpkin Dip Recipe

• 

  Pumpkin Spice Latte Cookie Cups

The post Spooky Mushroom French Bread Pizza Recipe appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

Picnics really are an amazing way to spend your time on a beautiful day. And the best part is, there aren’t any rules! As long as you have a blanket, basket, food, and beverages, you are all set. Here are some tips and tricks that you can learn to elevate your picnic experience to the next level! You can have the best picnics year round with minimal effort.

Food

Picnics revolve around food. So, when preparing your picnic, make sure you put thought into the food you pack.

If you are planning your picnic in warmer weather, packing food that will help you stay cool is essential to having a good time. Sandwiches, chips, salads, fruits, and veggies are picnic staples! Maybe try our Greek quinoa salad recipe, our Mexican street corn pasta salad, or our colorful honey lime fruit salad for a flavorful spin on some classic picnic recipes that taste delicious and keep you cool. 

You are missing out if you have never been on a picnic in cooler weather! There are less pests, and you don’t have to worry about any of your food melting or getting sticky before you can enjoy it. That being said, you’ll want to stay warm in chilly weather. Maybe try bringing our best-ever tomato soup in a thermos to enjoy with some crackers! Or, you could use our vegan hot chocolate mix to whip up some healthier hot chocolate for a cozy dessert!

Beverages

The drinks are almost as important as the food if you are looking to have the best picnic. Even if the snacks are perfect, being dehydrated is never fun!

When it is hot out, staying hydrated is extra important. But who wants to drink lukewarm water when the weather is hot? To avoid this, we recommend storing your beverages in an insulated container to keep them ice cold throughout the picnic. 

If you don’t have an insulated bottle, no worries! You can fill up a regular water bottle about half full with water and then freeze it on its side. After it is frozen, fill it up the rest of the way with water. Now, your water will stay ice cold the whole picnic! This can be done with other beverages as well! Sodas, juice, or our peach berry iced tea, are all deliciously refreshing for a sunny picnic.

On a colder day, you should still bring water to stay hydrated. To keep extra cozy, you can bring along some hot chocolate, coffee, or tea in an insulated tumbler. To stay extra warm and festive, try making our butterbeer latte!

Packing

Now that you have prepared your delicious picnic feast, you must transport it to your destination. How you pack your picnic depends on where you are going, the weather, and how fancy you want to be. Here are some helpful things to keep in mind no matter how you choose to pack picnic:

• Bring a picnic basket that is sturdy and (preferably) insulated. You do not want your food to be spoiled or squished by the time you get to your picnic spot. (We love this Picnic Basket we found on Amazon)
• Beverages are best in an insulated container to keep them extra cold or warm, depending on the weather. 
• For keeping things cool inside the picnic basket, store an ice pack or some frozen water bottles! Check out this tip for DIY Ice Packs.
• Utensils! Forks, spoons, knives, and napkins are all really important. Wet wipes are also good to have if you have kids with you.
• Sunscreen, hair ties or clips (long hair + wind = messy eating), and bug repellent.
• Dress comfy and for the weather! There is nothing worse than being uncomfortable.
• Entertainment like music, games, or books will make everything more fun! They can also be a great ice breaker if you are on a date.

Picnic

You are all ready to have the best picnics ever! Making memories is the ultimate part of a picnic, so remember to have fun, relax, and enjoy your day. If you found these tips helpful, let us know how your picnic experience went!

The post Tips for Planning the Best Picnics Year Round appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

A refreshing popsicle that packs a flavor punch! This easy to make Cherry Lime Popsicles Recipe is going to become a summer favorite!

Do you love cherry limeade? Have you ever tried it with fresh cherries? This Cherry Lime Popsicles recipe is made with fresh cherries, fresh limes, and is 100% spectacular! The flavor of this cool treat is sweet and refreshing. Honestly one of my all time favorite popsicles!

Ingredients

To make these popsicles you will need a Popsicle mold and popsicle sticks. Also a blender is best.

• Fresh/Frozen Cherries
• Limes
• Sugar
• Ice
• Water

Did You know??

If you find fresh cherries on sale or have a local source it is simple to Freeze Cherries for long term storage! Learn how to freeze fresh cherries with these easy tips!

Instructions

All you need is a blender and a few minutes. Pop all of the ingredients in the blender and give it a whirl. It’s that simple. Pulse less if you like fruit chucks, and puree more if you don’t want any chunks.

Pour the mixture into you popsicle mold and insert the sticks. Freeze for at least 6 hours before trying to remove from the mold. Enjoy!

Allergy Friendly

These popsicles are allergy friendly. They do not contain most of the major allergens.

*Please double check all ingredients to make sure they are compatible with your diet.

Storage

Remove popsicles from the mold and place in individual sandwich bags. Return to the freezer until ready to enjoy.

More Popsicles

Now that you know how easy it is to make homemade popsicles try some of these other delicious popsicle recipes

• 

  Cherry Lime Popsicles Recipe

• 

  Peaches & Cream Popsicles Recipe

• 

  7 Homemade Popsicle Recipes To Try This Summer

Print

Cherry Lime Popsicles

A refreshing popsicle that packs a flavor punch! This easy to make Cherry Lime Popsicles Recipe is going to become a summer favorite!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free

Keyword popsicle

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Freezing time 6 hours hours

Total Time 6 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 12 Popsicles

Calories 50kcal

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• Popsicle Mold
• Popsicle Sticks
• Blender

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb limes peeled (remove all peel and white), 3-4 small limes
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/4 cups ice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 lb cherries pitted, just over 1 cup

Instructions

• Place all of the ingredients in your blender and blend on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute. You can blend for less time if you like some fruit pieces in your popsicles.
• Pour the blend into your popsicle mold and place the sticks into the popsicles.
• Freeze for atleast 6 hours or until popsicles are frozen completely. Remove from the mold and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 50kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 61mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 22IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 0.2mg

The post Cherry Lime Popsicles Recipe appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.

Peach season rolls around and I am all about everything peaches! From freezing peaches, to peach salsa, and then these Simple Peach Crumb Bars! They are almost too easy to make! Your can adjust the recipe to be gluten free or vegan if needed, and they are picture perfect with a dollop of whipped cream or scoop of ice cream. The ultimate summer dessert.

Ingredients

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease your 13×9 pan.

In a bowl mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon for the crust. Cut your butter into small squares and cut it in the flour. You can use a pastry cutter or a fork for this. If you have a food processor you can use it to pulse until the dough resembles coarse sand.

Mix in the milk or milk alternative. Just 1 -2 TBSP until the dough holds together when squeezed.

Press a little over half the dough into the bottom of your 13×9 pan.

In another bowl you are going to mix your peach filling. 5 cups of diced peaches along with the sugar, cinnamon and cornstarch. Drizzle with lemon juice. Once it is mixed pour on the crust in your 13×9 pan.

Finally you are going to use the rest of your crust dough to create a crumble topping. Just squeeze bits of dough with your hands and crumble it on top of the peaches. Try to get an even coating leaving some of the peaches peeking through.

Bake at 350 degrees F for about 50 – 55 minutes or until golden brown.

You can serve this warm like a cobbler or allow it to cool completely and then slice into bars.

Gluten Free/Vegan

While this recipe can be made with typical ingredients there are a couple quick modifications to make this gluten free, vegan or both.

Gluten Free – Substitute in your favorite gluten free flour blend.

Vegan – Use a plant based butter and alternative milk (oat, almond, soy, etc).

Storage

Once these are cooled they store best in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. (They won’t last that long because they are so good!)

Print

Peach Crumb Bars

Love peaches and looking for the perfect summery dessert. This simple Peach Crumb Bars Recipe is sweet, easy, and splendid with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free, Vegan

Keyword bars

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 50 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings 12 bars

Calories 377kcal

Author Amanda Carlisle

Equipment

• 13×9 Pan
• pastry cutter optional
• mixing bowl

Ingredients

Crust

• 1 cup sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour or gluten free flour blend
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup unsalted butter cold, or plant butter
• 2 TBSP milk or alternative (oat, almond, etc)

Peach Filling

• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 5 cup diced peaches
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or spray a 13×9-inch baking pan and set aside.

Crust & Crumble

• In a medium bowl stir together 1 cup of sugar, 3 cups flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon. Using a pastry cutter, blend in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Mix in 1 – 2 Tbsp of milk or milk alternative (oat, almond, etc.) Until dough holds together when pressed.
• Gently press a little more than half the dough into the prepared pan.
• Reserve the other part of the dough for the crumble topping.

Filling

• In a large mixing bowl mix together the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and peaches. Toss to combine. Drizzle the lemon juice over the peaches and toss to coat.
• Pour the peach mixture over the crust and spread evenly.

Topping & Bake

• Using your hands, press together handfuls of the remaining crumb topping to create clumps. Scatter the clumps and remaining crumbled topping over the fruit layer leaving some peaches showing through.
• If using a glass pan, bake at 350°F degrees for 50-55 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely then chill before cutting or enjoy warm like a cobbler.

Video

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for best results.

Nutrition

Calories: 377kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 110mg | Potassium: 155mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 31g | Vitamin A: 686IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Peach Crumb Bars Recipe appeared first on A Few Shortcuts.